Polyamide Sutures | Nylon sutures
Polyamide suture is a monofilament non-absorbable, sterile surgical suture composed is a macromolecule with repeating units linked by amide bonds. Polyamide is synthesized by ring opening polymerization of caprolactam. Caprolactam has 6 carbons, hence the name ‘Nylon 6’. When caprolactam is heated at about 533 K in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen for about 4-5 hours, the ring breaks and undergoes polymerization. Then the molten mass is passed through spinnerets to form fibres of Nylon 6.
Polyamide suture is commonly used in both human and veterinary medicine for skin closure, Ophthalmic, General Closure, Orthopedics, Microsurgeries, soft tissue approximation and, or ligation. Polyamide suture fibres are tough, possessing high tensile strength, as well as elasticity and lustre. They are wrinkle-proof and highly resistant to abrasion and chemicals such as acids and alkalis. Glass transition temp of polyamide is 47 °C. As it is a monofilament suture, it does not support bacterial growth. It is not affected by blood, or weakened by tissue enzymes. It offers prolonged tensile strength even in infected areas as it is not degraded over time. This suture is known for low tissue drag, easy handling, lesser memory and good strength. Polypropylene suture are normally available in black colour, allowing for easy identification and better visibility against skin when operating.